I first became interested in radio in the mid 1950's. My first receiver was a Heathkit AR-3 which I purchased for $15.00.

In 1962 I received my first call, K3RYK. The rig was a SX-111 and a HT 37. Then I got married, lost interest, and sold the equipment.

In 1974 I took the test again, and was on the air with an SB-300 and a Heathkit Apache. Again, I lost interest after a year or so.

In 2003 at the ripe age of 60 the bug bit me again. I took the Technician, then the General test in April, and two months later I took the Extra Class test. I chose to accept my new call, KB3JPP, instead of reviving my old call.

My main rig consists of a ICOM IC-746PRO, and a G5RV Jr. antenna. I also have a Rock mite, with which I had a 650 mile QSO, and a SW40+ QRP transceiver, which has a 2030 mile QSO to its credit

The output from the tranceiver is connected to a SignaLink SL-1+, which is connected to my computer. This makes tuning CW much easier, and ensures that my transmit frequency is the same as my receive frequency. When working CW, I "see" as well as "hear" the signal.

Mostly I work CW, RTTY, and PSK31, all through my computer.

My goal is to become a more proficient CW operator. I practice whenever I can.